Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder
Sony's HDR-XR550V 240GB Handycam Camcorder provides up to 100 hours of high def recording to an internal hard disk drive (HDD), GPS capabilities, and a myriad of other features and functions. In addition to the large HDD, Sony also gave the XR550V the ability to record to proprietary Memory Stick media, or to SD/SDHC memory cards. Transfer video and still images from the HDD to removable media for easy uploading, and to free up space on the camera when you can't get to a PC.
The XR550V captures 1920 x 1080i HD video and 12MP stills. The camera also offers up 1080/60p output to HDTV, and features like Dual Recording that allow you to record video and take a still shot at the same time. Other options such as 24Mbps AVCHD video capture help you to get the most out of your memories.
At the core of the XR550V you'll find a 1/2.88" back-illuminated Exmor R CMOS sensor, a generous 3.5" Xtra Fine LCD display, a 0.27" color viewfinder, and other functions like 10x optical zoom, Optical SteadyShot image stabilization, and a Wide Angle G-Lens. Other features like Sony's BIONZ Image Processor, BRAVIA Sync technology, and an HDMI connection all come into play as well.
The built-in GPS receiver with NAVTEQ maps, one of the most notable features on the XR550V, gives you the ability to geotag your video or still images for quick retrieval options, geotagging your footage online, and for keeping everything organized according to place. The GPS receiver also automatically adjusts the camcorder's clock to the proper time zone, making it the ideal partner no matter where in the world you find yourself.
Among the other many user-features, the XR550V offers up the ever popular Face Detection, Smile Shutter, and Sony's Intelligent Auto modes. Other functions like an Assignable Dial and the customizable "My Menu" system help you set the camera to functions you use most often. And let's not forget external microphone and headphone connections, along with the Active Interface Shoe, which allow you to add optional accessories for enhancing your production value.
- 1920 x 1080 High Definition Video Recording
- 1920 x 1080i high definition resolution lets you record your memories in exceptional high definition quality. Capable of 1080/60p playback via HDMI and compatible HDTV providing stunning clarity and incredibly detailed playback of your memories
- 240GB Hard Disk Drive
- A built-in 240GB hard disk drive can record and store up to 100 hours of high definition video footage in long play mode (HD LP mode). In addition, "HDD Smart Protection" gives you peace of mind by helping to prevent any recorded video and images from being lost if the camcorder is accidentally dropped
- Media Card Slot
- For convenient storage and sharing of your images and videos, the camera accepts Memory Stick Duo / Memory Stick PRO Duo / Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo media and SD/SDHC media (optional)
- 1/2.88" Back-Illuminated "Exmor R" CMOS Sensor
- Experience low-light sensitivity with improved image clarity and drastically reduced grain with the back-illuminated "Exmor R" sensor. Designed for compact cameras and camcorders, the "Exmor R" sensor relocates the photo diodes above the support circuitry, maximizing the light gathering area per pixel so you can shoot with better results in lower lighting conditions
- Wide Angle G-Lens
- Experience the pinnacle of Sony lens technology with the professional-quality G Lens. Engineered for superior optical performance, Sony G lenses deliver brilliant, accurate color reproduction and sharp, amazingly detailed images. In addition, a short, 26.3mm focal length offers a broader perspective for enhanced wide angle shooting in photo mode and 29.8mm in video mode
- 3.5" Wide Xtra Fine TruBlack LCD Plus Viewfinder
- TruBlack technology brings remarkably higher contrast and brightness to the camcorder's 3.5" Wide Xtra Fine TruBlack LCD display, delivering more natural, realistic colors and easier viewing in bright conditions by reducing glare. An adjustable 0.27" color viewfinder (201k) allows you to capture video and frame your shots with the LCD closed
- 10x Optical / 120x Digital Zoom
- 10x optical zoom helps to bring the action close up from far away. In addition, Digital Zoom Interpolation means that digital zooming (up to 120x) is clearer, with less distortion than previous types of digital zoom
- 12MP Digital Still Capture
- 12 megapixel still image capture lets you take stunning, high resolution digital photos while the Dual record capability lets you capture 8.3MP still images while shooting high definition video, so you can capture those special moments without having to switch recording modes
- Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization with Active Mode
- SteadyShot image stabilization with Active Mode represents the next step forward in Sony image stabilization technology. Active Mode improves on existing SteadyShot image stabilization by allowing the camera to compensate for greater degrees of camera shake and deliver a stunning level of image smoothness
- Geotagging with Built-In GPS Receiver
- A built-in GPS receiver gives you the ability to view your current location on the LCD map display, as well as "tag" your shooting locations. Tagged videos and still images can be reviewed and played back using the Map Index function on the camcorder or once downloaded to your PC using the supplied PMB (Picture Motion Browser) software. Additionally, the receiver automatically adjusts your camcorder's clock to the proper time zone
- Map Index Function
- Map Index uses the geotagging capabilities of the built-in GPS receiver to "tag" your shot locations on a map in the camcorder, offering a new way to easily search and find a desired scene by location or view where a scene was captured
- Active Interface Shoe
- The Active Interface Shoe lets you mount optional Intelligent Accessories, such as external lights and microphones, which can help extend the capabilities of your camcorder
- Quick AF
- With the improved autofocus (AF) system, Quick AF, the focusing speed is twice as fast compared to previous models. Whether in bright daylight or in a dimly lit environment, Quick AF ensures fast, accurate, and consistent focus lock, enabling users to shoot in a wide range of scenes without missing any important moment. Especially when shooting night scenes where conventional AF might struggle to focus, thanks to the much improved AF algorithm in Quick AF, users can now capture crisp images, fast
- 1080/60p Playback Via HDMI and Compatible HDTV
- 1080/60p playback via HDMI and compatible HDTV providing stunning clarity and incredibly detailed playback of your memories
- Face Detection with Face Priority
- With Face Priority, your camcorder optimizes focus, color, exposure, and Smile Shutter technology for the face you prioritize. Just touch the preferred face on the LCD display and the camcorder will assign it priority, even if it leaves and returns to the frame
- Face Index Function
- Face Index makes it easy to find and play back the right video scene. Using Face Detection technology, Face Index indexes your video footage according to the faces detected in each scene. When it's time to play back video, simply search for what you want by selecting from among the detected faces displayed in the index
- Film Roll Index
- Like chapters in a book, Film Roll Index helps you easily find desired scenes in video footage. When using this feature, the camcorder previews the beginning of scenes and can create scene indexes set at specified display intervals (3, 6, or 12 seconds and 1 or 5 minutes)
- Smile Shutter
- Smile Shutter technology lets the camcorder automatically take still photos when your subject smiles, even while shooting high definition video. You can also set the sensitivity and choose child, adult, or auto priority
- Direct Copy to External HDD without a PC
- Store your memories in a whole new way with the ability to copy videos from your camcorder directly to an external hard disk drive (optional), all without a computer. Your camcorder can also access videos stored on the external hard drive for playback on your HDTV, allowing you to utilize the camcorder's handy playback features
- Intelligent Auto (10 iAUTO modes)
- Intelligent Auto mode goes a step beyond traditional auto modes by analyzing your shot and then automatically selecting the appropriate settings from 10 distinct scene modes (90 different combinations possible): Portrait Mode, Smile Shutter, Backlight Control, Scenery, Night Scenery Mode, High Sensitivity Mode, Macro Mode, Baby Mode, Walk Detection, Tripod, and Low Light Mode
- Personalized "My Menu" System
- New user friendly interface uses touch screen technology to allow users to scroll through menus quickly and easily and even create a personalized "My Menu" to bring together the functions they use most. Users can spend more time recording memories and less time in menus
- Easy Playback Options
- Four, easy to use Playback indexing formats allow users to easily find and play back scenes at any time. Film Roll Index indexes recorded scenes at specified display intervals, Face Index uses Face Detection technology to organize your video footage based on the faces detected in each scene, Map Index uses the GPS to easily find a desired scene based on location, and Date Indexing organizes scenes based on the time and date they were recorded
- Dual Record with Still Image Capture
- Dual record capability lets you capture 8.3MP still images while shooting high definition video, so you can capture those special moments without having to switch recording modes
- Smooth Slow Record
- The Smooth Slow Record mode increases the record rate from 60 frames per second (fps) to 240 fps, allowing you to capture 3 seconds of fast motion and play the video back in 12 seconds. This is a great tool for analyzing a golf swing or a viewing a bird in flight. In addition, you can record an audio track to narrate the video footage
- Built-In Intelligent Flash + NightShot
- For added clarity and detail when taking pictures in low-light situations, the built-in flash improves pictures and reduces shadows, while the NightShot infrared system allows for low-light shooting
- Golf Shot
- Building on the slow-motion capture capabilities of Smooth Slow Record, Golf Shot captures a few seconds of motion as a sequence of up to 22 still images, which can be viewed/printed individually or as a composite "sequence shot" image, great for analyzing the nuances of a golf swing, tennis serve, and other fast action
- Highlight Playback
- With Highlight Playback, your camcorder automatically creates short movies by identifying and compiling key scenes into a short, entertaining movie complete with music and transitions. In addition, the Highlight Scenario feature lets you save up to eight of these movies for later playback
- Sony PMB (Picture Motion Browser) Software
- Sony Picture Motion Browser software offers a simple, intuitive way to transfer, sort, and view your video and still images on your compatible PC. In addition, multiple output options let you burn your memories to DVD (optional), as well as take advantage of one click upload to a number of popular video and photo sharing sites
- Dynamic Range Optimizer
- The D-Range (Dynamic Range) Optimizer function adjusts the exposure and contrast of an image to counter the effects of high-contrast shooting condition, allowing for a great shot. The D-Range Optimizer suppresses "blackout" in dark areas such as shadows and "whiteout" in bright areas such as skies. As a result, the captured image appears as natural as the original scene
- x.v. Color Technology
- x.v. Color technology enables the HDR-XR550V to capture nearly twice (1.8x) as many viewable colors as the standard RGB color range, resulting in more natural, life-like images. You can even experience this expanded color range on the big screen when you connect your camcorder to x.v. Color capable displays, including a wide range of Sony BRAVIA HDTVs
- BIONZ Image Processor
- The BIONZ Image Processor works in conjunction with the Exmor CMOS sensor with ClearVid array for pristine imaging. The BIONZ Image Processor provides Data Noise Reduction, Fast Image processing, and Data compression to preserve videos and images. In addition, the BIONZ Image Processor enables Face Detection technology and Sony's Dynamic Range Optimizer for both video and still image capture. The higher processing speed also allows Dual Recording to capture still images while recording video
- BRAVIA Sync Technology
- BRAVIA Sync technology offers great ease of use in controlling compatible Sony products connected via an HDMI (CEC) connection. HDMI connectivity provides a simple, high-quality video and audio connection, with the ability to transmit HD video and up to 5.1 channel audio directly from the camcorder to compatible HDTVs via a single HDMI cable (not included). With BRAVIA Sync (CEC) technology, the HDMI connection also delivers the ability to control both the camcorder and HDTV using a single BRAVIA TV remote and displays the camcorder's playback menu on screen for easier navigation
- Additional Creative Control and Workflow Features
-
- Remote Commander remote control
- HDMI output for one cable connection to your HDTV
- Power on your camcorder by simply opening the camera's LCD display
- USB 2.0 provides an easy connection between your camcorder and PC for fast transfer of video and stills
- Record and zoom controls on LCD for more control and flexibility, especially for overhead or low angle shots
- Dolby Digital stereo recording with built-in zoom mic focuses on subject for clear dialogue and crisp, discrete sounds
| Optics | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 1/2.88" CMOS |
| Lens |
3.8 - 38 mm f/1.8 - 3.4 |
| Zoom |
Optical: 10x Digital: 120x |
| Filter Size | 37 mm |
| Recording | |
|---|---|
| System | NTSC |
| Recording Media |
Hard Disk Drive 240GB Video/Image SD/SDHC, Memory Stick PRO, Memory Stick PRO Duo, Memory Stick PRO-HG Duo |
| Recording Time |
Hard Disk Drive High Definition: FX: 1370 minutes High Definition: HQ: 3560 minutes High Definition: LP: 5770 minutes Standard Definition: HQ: 3560 minutes |
| Video Format |
High Definition MPEG AVC/H.264 1920 x 1080i (60 fps) |
| Still Image Resolution | JPEG: 12 Megapixel |
| Audio Format | 2-Channel Stereo |
| Display | |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Screen Size | 3.5" |
| Touchscreen | Yes |
| Features | |
|---|---|
| Image Stabilization | Optical |
| Lux |
11 (LOW LUX, 1/60 shutter speed) 3 (Auto Slow Shutter ON, 1/3 shutter speed) |
| Built-in Mic | Yes |
| Built-in Speaker | Yes |
| Built-in Light/Flash |
Light - Yes Flash - Yes |
| Accessory Shoe | Hot |
| Tripod Mount | 1/4" |
| Input/Output Connectors | |
|---|---|
| Inputs | 1x Microphone In |
| Outputs |
1x USB 2.0 1x Analog A/V Input 1x Headphone Out 1x HDMI C (Mini) 1x Component Video (out) 1 Please Note:Analog A/V: Included via A/V Remote Terminal |
| Microphone Input | Yes |
| Headphone Jack | Yes |
| General | |
|---|---|
| System Requirements |
Windows
Please Note:PMB Ver.5.0 does not support Mac OS |
| Battery | Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Pack |
| Power Adapter | Not Specified By Manufacturer |
| Dimensions (WxHxD) | 2.76 x 2.91 x 5.63" / 70 x 74 x 143 mm |
| Weight | 20.11 oz / 570 g |
REVIEW SNAPSHOT®
by PowerReviews(based on 46 reviews)
Ratings Distribution
98%
of respondents would recommend this to a friend.
Pros
- Zoom range/performance (52)
- Easy to use (43)
- Great picture quality (39)
- Image stabilization (39)
- Good in low light (37)
Cons
- Limited zoom (8)
Best Uses
- Travel (34)
- Home movies (33)
- HD shooting (31)
- Weddings (26)
- Low light (24)
- Reviewer Profile:
- Semi-pro (18), Enthusiast (16), Casual user (9), Pro videographer (3)
- Was this a gift?:
- No (32)
Most Liked Positive Review
Best HD camcorder EVER!
I was debating if I should get the CX550V or the XR550V. A lot people recommended that I get the CX550V because it's just a better deal. Boy, am I glad I didn't listen...Read complete review
I was debating if I should get the CX550V or the XR550V. A lot people recommended that I get the CX550V because it's just a better deal. Boy, am I glad I didn't listen to them. Having the extra 240GB storage space was well worth the $200 price difference. A 32GB memory card itself is already almost $200. I just could not pass up the opportunity of getting the extra 240GB storage space. Not only that, the XR550V feels so much better in my hand with the hard drive case on the outside of the camcorder compared to the CX550V. Another great feature of this camcorder is the LCD touch screen. The 3.5" LCD touch screen is amazing. The only downfall is it gets dirty too easily. Lastly, the HD video quality is awesome. The low light capability of this camcorder is just insane. I recorded some videos in very dim rooms and yet the results are still outstanding. This is by far the best camcorder I've ever owned. I would highly recommend this camcorder to anyone who wants a very quality consumer camcorder. You will not be disappointed.
VS
Most Liked Negative Review
Not a good as the HDR-XR520V
I wanted a second camera I bought this I was not working for me first Different Batteries than the XR520. 10X zoom instead of 12X. Picture quality not as goo as the 520V. Build...Read complete review
I wanted a second camera I bought this I was not working for me first Different Batteries than the XR520. 10X zoom instead of 12X. Picture quality not as goo as the 520V. Build quality it felt cheap compared to last years model. I used it for a week now I am looking for a used 520 as a second camera. Sorry Sony you made a bad move.
Reviewed by 46 customers
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Pros
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Zoom
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
I love it.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
The Sony HDR-XR550V is a compact HD Handycam but is a powerhouse for taking excellent photos and HD videos. As a wedding videographer/photographer, this unit compliments and enhances my final product to the Bride and Groom.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
So far the best camcorder I have ever had. Lots of space to store images/video.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
travel videos, home videos, sports
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
The BEST camcorder i've come across so far.
buying a camcorder was a big decession for me, i made my share of rounds, consulted friends, googled a lot and then finally decided on the XR 550, brilliant in every aspect, specially suited for outdoors.
i've used it for 3 functions so far and its tooo good, excellent value for money, best of all i got the best deal from BH photography.
I'am one happy customer from Sydney, Australia.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
This is my 4th sony camcorder , the last one I had was Sony HDR-XR 520V which is similar to XR550V but the screen is smaller , As I had experience with this sony HDR line , so I decided to take the newer version that gave me a bit bigger screen size , this is a amazing machine , the most thing I like and most useful for me is a 240 GB built in , digital zoom for this model is only 10X the old one is 12X as well , but this does not bother me at all , I would like this HDR line will have bigger hard drive or interchangeable , bottom line is excellence product , best of all B&H shipment so fast , it took only 2 days to reach this sony to me , shipping time is excess my expectation , I would come back to B&H again
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
Best Uses
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
We are a video company that must do 34 productions a month. We use four Sony XDCAM's for everything except in situations where we want to draw little notice (such as exterior shoots without film permits). We've used the HDR-XR550V for about a 8 to 10 shoots over the past year and continue to be amazed by the camera's video quality, especially in low-light situations. We integrate it with the XDCAM footage and you can't tell the difference, at least in what we've used it for (which includes inside a church as well as a very low-light basement situation). We purchased the larger battery and it runs for hours. And hard-drive space has never been an issue. We haven't really used the audio from the camera so I can't comment on that. Ergonomically, the zoom lever is horribly placed but everything else is fine except for the larger batter protruding in back of the eye-piece view-finder (but we always use the flip-out screen so that hasn't been a real problem). All in all, just an amazing camera and a strong BUY NOW recommendation from us!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
Used mostly outdoors.
This camcorder is certainly loaded with great qualifications. It is lightweight, easy to carry and simple to operate. It captures scenes with great clarity especially when it comes to close-ups. The automatic features like adjustments for light conditions,color changes and focal areas are simply remarkable. Love the amazing zoom features as well. Overall, it's a great performer.
Disadvantages: 1. LCD screen. They all have the same problem with the sun shining onto them. Glare will kill the view. With the touch panel, things get worse because of finger prints making object observation mere guess work. 2. Microphones. As with all of them, the slightest breeze will destroy every sound. 3. I would prefer a forward location of the photo button. I find it difficult to reach it at it's present location. Finally, I would not use the software for anything else but downloading movies and converting them. And I also wish manuals could be written in real English rather than in some Asian dialect.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- I have no complaints
Best Uses
- Ghost hunting
- HD Shooting
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
im a paranormal investigator so i need lots of memory and great night vision. This cam has both. the clarity is unsurpassed and all the accessories you can by are top notch. I use a ir light that fits in the shoe and its very clear at full darkness. this is the 3rd one our group has purchased and would definately recommend it to anybody. the price was great too.[...]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Travel
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
Nice product
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Large Clear LCD
- Supports SD card
Cons
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
Have seen couple of camcorders that my friends owned but this one is the best ever. the support for SD card makes it appreciate more. the only reason for giving a 4 * is because the image quality is not that great in a room during the day(ofcourse can't compare it to my DSLR :-)). Will try pictures in bright light conditions and update soon. [...]
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Sound
- Large Clear LCD
- Supports SD card
Cons
- Poor Still Image
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
have seen couple of camcorders that my friends owned but this one is the best ever. the support for SD card makes it appreciate more. the only reason for giving a 4 * is because the image quality is not that great in a room during the day(ofcourse can't compare it to my DSLR :-)). Will try pictures in bright light conditions and update soon
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
- Poor In Low Light
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Travel
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
The HD quality of this camera definitely bleeds through into its still images. at 12 megapixels, the stills that I get from this camera are better than those I have seen on other cameras of higher MPs. The recording quality is great as well, it picks up sound perfectly, and the video looks as if you're standing right there. The only complaint I have thus far is that you have to be sure the camera is fully focused before you take a still picture or it will turn out blurry, but that is no different than any other cameras. It seems to take a bit longer sometimes but the images come out amazing in the end so it's all worth it. I absolutely LOVE this camera.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
Cons
- Complicated To Operate
Best Uses
- Good to shooting video
- HD Shooting
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
easy to use and powerful
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Robust
Cons
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
This camera is all I had hoped for, Easy to follow instructions. Usefull functions great quality vids and able to handle the rough traveling I do in the outback of Australia.
Very very pleased.
Garth Marks
Australia
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
Cons
Best Uses
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
1) There is no neck strap, or any provision to attach a third party strap. If you are a two-fisted shooter like I am (video and DSLR stills) then you can only buy a strap that screws into the tripod adapter, which makes the camera dangle face down on your shoulder.
2) The image stabilization is excellent, but only at wide-angle. When you are zoomed in, the shaking is pretty noticeable, especially after two cups of coffee.
Other than that, the camera quality is terrific, just like everyone else has already written.
Don't forget to buy an HDMI cord, since Sony doesn't provide one. (You do get component, composite and USB.)
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
You can go wrong with this camera 240 gb ,very good quality in low light conditions,and excellent high definition picture, automatic and manual features ...the best camera by far .....if you want to get this camera do it now before will be out of stock !!!!!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Great Sound
- Great Zoom
- Large Clear LCD
- Zoom range/performance
Cons
Best Uses
- Documentaries
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Movies/Short Films
- Travel
- Weddings/Events
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
Well a got the camera now for about 4 days, but I am really impress the quality and easy functions. The camera work so easy, even my 8 year old has lots of fun with it. The quality view is amazing and the functions are very easy to use. The easy playback of photos and videos works really well. The stabilization function is a big positive. If one can afford to buy this camera, don't buy something else.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Great Picture Quality
- Macro Capability
Cons
- Focus Wheel WAY too slow
- Horrible Flash
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- Football games
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
Great camera! Best for recording football games due to its huge drive. Only problem is the focus wheel. You have to turn it 3 or 4 full turns to rack focus, and you can just turn it, because one side is blocked by the camera. So macro rack focus is virtually unusable. However macro is very good on this camera.
Amazing video quality. Best consumer quality out there, you get what you pay for!
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Pros
- Easy to Use
- Good Image Stabilization
- Good in Low Light
- Great Picture Quality
- Large Clear LCD
Cons
- Limited Zoom
Best Uses
- HD Shooting
- Home Movies
- Indoors/Low Light
- Travel
Comments about Sony HDR-XR550V 240GB HD Handycam Camcorder:
I have a new baby coming soon. With all the features of this camera i.e. Image Stabilization, 12 mega pixel camera, HD video, etc, this device will take care of all my needs (video and pictures). My brother said, with new baby, it will be hard to carry around two devices so just get one nice one that can do both pictures and videos.
So far I've seen, low light, pictures, the HD video are all excellent. It even has the Night Shot mode where it uses infrared light fr shooting in total darkness.
Other things I think will be helpful is smaller size and lighter weight (but this is like top-of-the-line consumer of Sony so it will tend to be bigger). Larger optical zoom will be nice too.
Other things I like are the optional accessories like the hand grip / mini-tripod that has controls on it, bluetooth mic that you can clip to your subject / person, rechargeable lights, etc.
- Was this a gift?:
- No
Displaying reviews 1-20
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Media
Recording media is not included, be prepared - always carry extra media.
- Price: $9.99
- GBP 6.36
Batteries & Power
Don't get caught without power, always have a spare battery.
- Price: $64.99
- GBP 41.39
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- Original: $39.95
- Save: $3.99
- Price: $35.96
- GBP 22.90
Bags & Cases
Carry, store, and protect all your equipment with a bag or case.
- Price: $12.49
- GBP 7.96
-
- Original: $17.95
- Save: $1.79
- Price: $16.16
- GBP 10.29
Filters
Protect your lens or produce a desired visual effect by adding a filter.
- Price: $8.90
- GBP 5.67
- Price: $35.95
- GBP 22.90
Lenses & Adaptors
Capture the right view with a conversion lens.
- Price: $129.88
- GBP 82.72
- Price: $121.00
- GBP 77.07
External Microphones
Enhance the quality of your audio recording with an external microphone.
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- Original: $22.95
- Save: $2.29
- Price: $20.66
- GBP 13.16
What's in the Box
- USB Cable
- AC-L200 AC Adapter
- Component A/V Cable
- A/V Cable
- NP-FV50 Battery Pack
- Remote Control
- Lithium Battery
- 1-Year Parts and 90-Days Labor Limited Warranty
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